ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — An early winter storm has left tens of thousands without electricity across New Mexico as it swept through the northern regions of the state. The storm, characterized by heavy snowfall and strong winds, prompted the closure of schools and government offices on Thursday.
Public Service Company of New Mexico deployed numerous crews to tackle extensive power outages that affected areas from Albuquerque to Santa Fe and further afield. The utility provider requested residents to exercise patience as they worked to restore power.
In response to the outages, several school districts that had initially planned for virtual classes opted to cancel sessions altogether. Schools located in Santa Fe and Los Alamos declared snow days following the significant accumulation of snow overnight, with even more expected throughout the day.
Efforts to keep major highways operational were underway as snowplows worked diligently. However, state police announced that Interstate 25, situated just south of the Colorado border, was closed in both directions due to the adverse weather conditions.
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a blizzard warning for certain areas of the state and reported over 100 vehicles stuck on highways in the northeastern part of New Mexico. Forecasters cautioned residents about “extremely hazardous driving conditions,” worsened by poor visibility caused by blowing snow.
Tonja Goode Ross shared her decision to remain indoors, enjoying hot chocolate instead of venturing out into what she described as the “first real snow” of the season for Corona, a rural area in central New Mexico. The picturesque landscape transformed into a winter spectacle, with pastures blanketed in snow and tree branches bending under the weight of the fresh accumulation.
By early morning, nearly a foot of snow had already fallen, with an additional 2.5 inches accumulating in a short span of two hours. “Moisture is always a blessing here — no matter the form it comes in,” Ross commented positively about the snow.
The National Weather Service has cautioned that the ongoing storm may result in record snowfall totals through Friday, with over 3 feet anticipated for Las Vegas and other regions in northern New Mexico. Snow drifts could reach heights of 6 feet, potentially hindering travel for several days, according to meteorologists.